FC Barcelona midfielder Rodri Hernández has been diagnosed with a tear in the right femoral biceps and will be sidelined for approximately four weeks.
The injury occurred during the Champions League match against Aston Villa, where he was substituted at halftime. Medical tests on Wednesday confirmed the extent. He will miss upcoming matches including LaLiga fixtures against Atlético Madrid, Villarreal, Deportivo, and Celta, as well as the Champions League game against Sabah. A possible return is targeted for the Champions League clash with Manchester City.
Rodri has been a key player under Hansi Flick, starting 8 of 10 LaLiga matches (697 minutes) and 3 of 4 Champions League matches (248 minutes). His absence forces midfield reorganization; options include Pedri, Marc Bernal, Frenkie de Jong, and Gavi. Marc Bernal replaced him against Aston Villa and has started three LaLiga games. Frenkie de Jong returned from injury and played at center-back against Alavés. Gavi has featured in eight matches this season but did not play against Alavés.
Rodri will also miss Spain's UEFA Nations League matches against Czech Republic and England. Other injured Barcelona players include Eric García, Xavi Espart, Dani Olmo, Jules Koundé, Andreas Christensen, and Roony Bardghji, though García, Koundé, and Christensen are nearing returns for the Atlético match.
